Islamabad: Federal Minister for Railways Hanif Abbasi has announced that 11 trains will be outsourced as part of Pakistan Railways’ broader modernization efforts. The reforms include digital ticketing, infrastructure upgrades, and revenue generation through freight operations to support passenger services.
Speaking informally with journalists, Abbasi said Pakistan Railways, after years of stagnation, is now undergoing significant transformation. Ticketing has already been digitized, with passengers able to book through 16 banks, Easypaisa, and Ufone Bank. To curb fare evasion, ticket checkers will soon be equipped with handheld devices, a step aimed at saving around Rs1 billion in annual losses.
The Ministry of Railways has also transitioned to an e-office system to streamline operations. Abbasi highlighted freight operations as a key focus for generating additional revenue, which will be reinvested into improving passenger services.
On the infrastructure side, major projects are underway, including the 480-kilometre track upgrade from Rohri to Karachi with support expected from the Asian Development Bank. The Ministry is also working closely with provincial governments in Sindh, Balochistan, and Punjab on further development projects.
Abbasi reiterated that the reforms are designed to modernize the state-owned enterprise and restore passenger confidence in Pakistan Railways.
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